Meaning of 1 Corinthians 14:19

In 1 Corinthians 14:19, Paul prioritizes clear communication in the gathered assembly of believers, stating he would rather utter five intelligible words that edify the church than ten thousand words spoken in an unknown tongue. This passage directly addresses the misuse of spiritual gifts, specifically the gift of tongues, within the Corinthian church, where its exercise had become a source of confusion and pride rather than spiritual building. Paul's concern is not to devalue the gift of tongues itself, but to regulate its use in public worship so that the entire community, including those unacquainted with the language spoken, can be instructed and strengthened in their faith. The emphasis is on intelligibility and mutual edification, arguing that the ultimate purpose of spiritual expression in the church is to build up the body of Christ through understandable teaching and encouragement.

Context and Background

The Corinthian church, established by Paul, was a vibrant community but also prone to disorder and a misplaced emphasis on certain spiritual manifestations. Chapter 14 of 1 Corinthians is dedicated to the proper use of spiritual gifts, particularly prophecy and tongues, in public worship. The Corinthians seem to have been enamored with the ecstatic and dramatic nature of speaking in tongues, often to the detriment of orderly worship and the understanding of the congregation. Paul's correction in this chapter is a pastoral effort to bring order and spiritual maturity to their gatherings, ensuring that worship is directed towards God and beneficial to all participants.

Key Themes and Messages

• Intelligibility over Quantity: The core message is that the effectiveness of spiritual communication is measured by its ability to be understood and to instruct, not by its volume or perceived spiritual intensity. Five clear words have more value in building up the church than ten thousand unintelligible ones.
• Edification of the Church: Paul consistently emphasizes that spiritual gifts are given for the "common good" (1 Cor. 12:7) and for the "building up of the church" (1 Cor. 14:4, 12, 26). This verse is a direct application of that principle, asserting that clarity is essential for edification.
• Order in Worship: The passage advocates for an orderly and understandable worship service where everyone can participate and be ministered to. Uninterpreted tongues, while potentially a sign for unbelievers (1 Cor. 14:22), can become a barrier to faith and understanding if not handled properly.
• Prioritizing Understanding: Paul's preference for five intelligible words highlights the value God places on the minds and spiritual growth of His people. True spiritual experience should lead to understanding and growth.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This verse has profound implications for how churches conduct their worship services today. It calls for a focus on clear preaching, teaching, and prayer that the congregation can understand and respond to. It means that even when employing spiritual gifts like tongues, there must be an accompanying interpretation to ensure the message is accessible. The spiritual significance lies in recognizing that God communicates with His people in ways that can be apprehended by their minds and hearts, leading to genuine faith and growth. Applying this principle means valuing clarity and mutual understanding in all forms of church communication, from sermons to small group discussions.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

The principle of clear divine communication is a recurring theme throughout Scripture. From God speaking audibly to Abraham and Moses, to the prophets delivering God's word, to Jesus' teachings, and the apostles' epistles, God has consistently sought to make His will and character known to humanity in understandable ways. The Pentecost event (Acts 2), where the disciples spoke in other tongues, is often cited in discussions of this passage. However, Paul's instruction here clarifies that the purpose of such manifestations in a corporate setting is ultimately for the edification of those present, which requires intelligibility. The Old Testament prophets were often criticized for their message not being understood or heeded, and Jesus himself often had to explain his parables to his disciples. This verse reinforces the biblical emphasis on God's desire for His people to know Him and His truth.

Analogies

• A Foreign Language Teacher: Imagine a teacher who speaks fluent French but is teaching a class of English speakers. If the teacher only speaks French, the students will learn very little. However, if the teacher interspersed French with clear English explanations, the students would begin to grasp the language and its nuances. The five intelligible words are like the clear English explanations that enable learning.
• A Medical Diagnosis: A doctor needs to explain a diagnosis and treatment plan clearly to a patient. If the doctor used only highly technical medical jargon, the patient would be confused and unable to make informed decisions about their health. Clear, understandable language is crucial for effective care and healing.
• A Blueprint for Construction: A builder needs a clear blueprint to construct a building. A blueprint filled with illegible scribbles and symbols would be useless. The clarity of the blueprint is essential for the successful execution of the construction project.

Relation to Other Verses

• 1 Corinthians 14:4: "Whoever speaks in a tongue builds himself up, but whoever prophesies builds up the church." This verse directly contrasts self-edification with church-edification, a theme amplified in verse 19.
• 1 Corinthians 14:12: "So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church." This verse sets the overarching goal for the use of spiritual gifts, which verse 19 then specifies requires intelligibility.
• 1 Corinthians 14:26: "What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a psalm, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up." This verse provides a broader framework for orderly worship where all gifts contribute to edification, underscoring Paul's point in verse 19.
• 1 Corinthians 12:7: "To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good." This verse establishes the purpose of all spiritual gifts, which is to benefit the entire community, a principle that necessitates understandable communication.